A study Bible contains the full text of the Old and New Testament while bringing together collective research and historical insights discovered by Bible scholars. All the original scripture is intact, but extra notes, maps and references are added to a study Bible to guide the reader in understanding context and meaning within each verse. Here are just a few of the features you’ll often find in a study Bible:
1. Book Introductions – At the beginning of each book is information on the author, audience, culture, history and background of each book. These sections are valuable when studying the Author or History.
2. Study Notes/Commentary – Located usually on the bottom half of each page of a study Bible are verse insights carefully curated by groups of Biblical scholars. While not scripture themselves, they typically include research that outlines the history, culture or background of a passage to help you understand the passage more clearly. Because they can help in word studies and point to other passages throughout the Bible that speak on the same topic, study Bible notes are helpful when studying all of CHARA: Context, History, Author, Research, and Apply.
3. Cross References – Often found in the margins around the scripture verses, each verse has cross-references to other passages throughout the book or Bible that can help when studying Context, as you can easily find passages that correlate to what you’re studying.
4. Maps/Charts/Diagrams/Timelines – Found throughout a study Bible are maps that show geographical context, plus charts and timelines that help organize large ideas or time frames. Additionally, some study Bibles include diagrams, illustrations, and other visuals to help understand the landscape, history, geography or time period when diving deeper into understanding the History.
5. Concordances – In the back of a study Bible is an alphabetized list of key words along with passage references of where these key words can be located throughout the Bible. This option is great when looking for additional Biblical references to a specific topic.
6. Articles – In some study Bibles are articles written by Biblical scholars to provide historical insight, address theological issues or to help with application of the Bible in our daily lives. They typically reflect the opinions and interpretations of the Bible scholars that helped collaborate on the study Bible, and are not considered scripture themselves
